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The Unicorn Bond
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
April 22, 2026
I received this as an ARC from the author.
Whereas romantacy is normally not for me, I did enjoy this book and will happily read the next one when it comes out. What drew me in is how even seemingly small choices can have a big impact.
Magic vs Technology or can they coexist? How many others hide what they are to protect themselves or others? How far will one go for someone?
This is a great read for those that enjoy a slow burn with very little spice with a bit of love triangle and finding oneself tossed in.
Whereas romantacy is normally not for me, I did enjoy this book and will happily read the next one when it comes out. What drew me in is how even seemingly small choices can have a big impact.
Magic vs Technology or can they coexist? How many others hide what they are to protect themselves or others? How far will one go for someone?
This is a great read for those that enjoy a slow burn with very little spice with a bit of love triangle and finding oneself tossed in.
April 25, 2026
I received an advanced copy of the Unicorn Bond as an ARC from the author.
I wasn't quite sure what to expect going into this book but it ended up being a really good read. The idea of animal companions being soul-bound and unseen by others felt fresh and added emotional depth to the story. It gave the relationships a great sense of fate and connection.
Sylvette's journey held my attention especially with the mystery of the Touchstone and the tension surrounding those who reject Animal Magic. The world-building was perfectly paced and didn't feel too heavy, and I loved how the story blended fantasy elements with themes of responsibility, trust and belonging. Magic coming up against technology really had a different twist as well.
Overall I really liked this book and found it easy to escape into. I'll definitely be picking up book 2 to see how the story continues.
I wasn't quite sure what to expect going into this book but it ended up being a really good read. The idea of animal companions being soul-bound and unseen by others felt fresh and added emotional depth to the story. It gave the relationships a great sense of fate and connection.
Sylvette's journey held my attention especially with the mystery of the Touchstone and the tension surrounding those who reject Animal Magic. The world-building was perfectly paced and didn't feel too heavy, and I loved how the story blended fantasy elements with themes of responsibility, trust and belonging. Magic coming up against technology really had a different twist as well.
Overall I really liked this book and found it easy to escape into. I'll definitely be picking up book 2 to see how the story continues.
May 1, 2026
(3.5) The Unicorn Bond was such a different story.
In the beginning I loved the whole idea of the unicorn, and it’s not your normal horse type unicorn but I won’t elaborate on that.
The story follows our FMC, Sylvette, on her journey through Cambridge and her Animal science studies as well as a very important test.
She annoyed me beyond belief at some point because of the test that she keeps putting off.
The whole book is about the search and about 10% discovery and nothing exciting happens. I was very disappointed. However, I will still be waiting for and reading the second book. I have some hope for her growth in the book to follow.
I felt the connection between her and some characters were very lacking and cold. Some of it made no sense to me at all and I wished there was a bit more growth.
I loved the way the studies were explained, and you feel a part of it. At some point there was a class about Ice Fish and I was disappointed when the class ended! I wanted to learn more. However I wish the relationships made me feel more like this too.
I think I rated this 3.5 because Sylvette was just too much for me to deal with. But I enjoyed the rest of the book a lot. The settings, the history and museums, the companions and the magic.
Recommended to YA readers who enjoys an academic, mystery type of storyline.
In the beginning I loved the whole idea of the unicorn, and it’s not your normal horse type unicorn but I won’t elaborate on that.
The story follows our FMC, Sylvette, on her journey through Cambridge and her Animal science studies as well as a very important test.
She annoyed me beyond belief at some point because of the test that she keeps putting off.
The whole book is about the search and about 10% discovery and nothing exciting happens. I was very disappointed. However, I will still be waiting for and reading the second book. I have some hope for her growth in the book to follow.
I felt the connection between her and some characters were very lacking and cold. Some of it made no sense to me at all and I wished there was a bit more growth.
I loved the way the studies were explained, and you feel a part of it. At some point there was a class about Ice Fish and I was disappointed when the class ended! I wanted to learn more. However I wish the relationships made me feel more like this too.
I think I rated this 3.5 because Sylvette was just too much for me to deal with. But I enjoyed the rest of the book a lot. The settings, the history and museums, the companions and the magic.
Recommended to YA readers who enjoys an academic, mystery type of storyline.
April 24, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Unicorn Bond by Coby Birch
How can you not want to read a book when the title includes the word “Unicorn?” That was my first thought when I began reading. This book is about Animal Magic. Some people have Animal Companions. An animal that has joined with their soul. It was not by coincidence or need, but by fate. The animal stays invisible to everyone but their companion. It is a universal gift, this companion. They are only shown in complete faith and trust.
In this current time, Animal Magic is fading. A group of Rebels are out to convince everyone that Animal Companions are a detriment to an ordinary life. To be reliant on an invisible creature, is to be anchored in grief and responsibility.
The story about Sylvette Darling. She has been sent to Cambridge University to find the “Touchstone.” As someone with an Animal Companion, she has an aversion to technology. Besides technology, it has been instilled in her since a young age, that touch and relationships are wrong. They are two things that can set you astray. She meets Robert during lab and what starts as friendship starts to develop into more. Sylvette has many doubts about her future and what has been asked of her. She doesn’t understand the how and why of the “Touchstone” and finds she just wants to be like everyone else. As time goes on, she finds that she enjoys her relationship and the desire to fulfill what has been asked of her fades. During all of this, her companion, a unicorn, begins to fade. Now she has to focus on.
Beyond, the slight confusion I had with whose POV the story was following. The Unicorn Bond is a great opening to a new series.
The Unicorn Bond by Coby Birch
How can you not want to read a book when the title includes the word “Unicorn?” That was my first thought when I began reading. This book is about Animal Magic. Some people have Animal Companions. An animal that has joined with their soul. It was not by coincidence or need, but by fate. The animal stays invisible to everyone but their companion. It is a universal gift, this companion. They are only shown in complete faith and trust.
In this current time, Animal Magic is fading. A group of Rebels are out to convince everyone that Animal Companions are a detriment to an ordinary life. To be reliant on an invisible creature, is to be anchored in grief and responsibility.
The story about Sylvette Darling. She has been sent to Cambridge University to find the “Touchstone.” As someone with an Animal Companion, she has an aversion to technology. Besides technology, it has been instilled in her since a young age, that touch and relationships are wrong. They are two things that can set you astray. She meets Robert during lab and what starts as friendship starts to develop into more. Sylvette has many doubts about her future and what has been asked of her. She doesn’t understand the how and why of the “Touchstone” and finds she just wants to be like everyone else. As time goes on, she finds that she enjoys her relationship and the desire to fulfill what has been asked of her fades. During all of this, her companion, a unicorn, begins to fade. Now she has to focus on.
Beyond, the slight confusion I had with whose POV the story was following. The Unicorn Bond is a great opening to a new series.
April 22, 2026
Loved it
Fmc Sylvette goes to Cambridge but she's unlike other students. She comes from a rare genetic line bonded to an invisible animal companion. Laka a unicorn is her animal companion. Magic that's in DNA not cast by spells. Magic is fading so its up to her to find the truthstone that may be the only thing to keep her kind from being destroyed. She must choose bettween 2 mmcs. Mmc Robert who has no magic, offers a normal life without it and saftey. Mmc Benno sees her for who she is. Who can she trust? Who will she choose? Will she complete her task and find the truthstone?
Slow burn, magical creatures, love triangle, university setting, little spice, betrayal, mystery
Will continue to read the series and waiting for book 2 to come out.
Fmc Sylvette goes to Cambridge but she's unlike other students. She comes from a rare genetic line bonded to an invisible animal companion. Laka a unicorn is her animal companion. Magic that's in DNA not cast by spells. Magic is fading so its up to her to find the truthstone that may be the only thing to keep her kind from being destroyed. She must choose bettween 2 mmcs. Mmc Robert who has no magic, offers a normal life without it and saftey. Mmc Benno sees her for who she is. Who can she trust? Who will she choose? Will she complete her task and find the truthstone?
Slow burn, magical creatures, love triangle, university setting, little spice, betrayal, mystery
Will continue to read the series and waiting for book 2 to come out.
April 22, 2026
I was given The Unicorn Bond as an ARC and this review is free.
Coby Birch takes us convincingly into the first term of a woman student in Natural Sciences at Cambridge, birthplace of DNA. The role of her beloved unicorn in her life is convincingly portrayed; she is an Animalist, a person genetically bonded to a unique protective animal. She must negotiate threats from technology, a subtle antagonist, and a powerful enemy. The book is entertaining and fun but also makes serious points about the threat of technology to the feeling side of life, and the risks of gene editing.
I strongly recommend this book to those who like cosy romantasy and magic, and the contemporary university setting may also appeal.
Coby Birch takes us convincingly into the first term of a woman student in Natural Sciences at Cambridge, birthplace of DNA. The role of her beloved unicorn in her life is convincingly portrayed; she is an Animalist, a person genetically bonded to a unique protective animal. She must negotiate threats from technology, a subtle antagonist, and a powerful enemy. The book is entertaining and fun but also makes serious points about the threat of technology to the feeling side of life, and the risks of gene editing.
I strongly recommend this book to those who like cosy romantasy and magic, and the contemporary university setting may also appeal.
May 11, 2026
It's been awhile since I read a decent urban fantasy. While not a whole lot goes on in the book action wise, it definitely sets the pace for the books that will follow it. The world and characters are beautifully built and there's just enough going on to keep the reader wanting to see what happens next. I like when a first book is like this because it really sticks with me long after being finished, which is important when the second book doesn't exist yet lol.
I eagerly await book two in this series and hope I'm not kept waiting too long.
I eagerly await book two in this series and hope I'm not kept waiting too long.
April 27, 2026
Felt very YA.
Unique read. Interesting concept; technology makes people sick. Really loved the play on mourning the loss of what could have been.
The unicorn size threw me off. I went in under the impression it would be the size of a full blown horse, but it’s more of a large dog size?
I appreciate that every time I had a question about something, it was answered in the next chapter.
Does read rather predictable, and very young adult. The supporting characters drive points in, and if you can put two and two together you will predict the twist.
It feels like everyone else in the world knows what is going on before Sylvette. She’s not my favorite character; but she’s relatable. First time getting a guy’s attention and suddenly she forgets everything (me too girl, me too). I enjoyed her maturity/realization arc.
Overall a solid read.
Unique read. Interesting concept; technology makes people sick. Really loved the play on mourning the loss of what could have been.
The unicorn size threw me off. I went in under the impression it would be the size of a full blown horse, but it’s more of a large dog size?
I appreciate that every time I had a question about something, it was answered in the next chapter.
Does read rather predictable, and very young adult. The supporting characters drive points in, and if you can put two and two together you will predict the twist.
It feels like everyone else in the world knows what is going on before Sylvette. She’s not my favorite character; but she’s relatable. First time getting a guy’s attention and suddenly she forgets everything (me too girl, me too). I enjoyed her maturity/realization arc.
Overall a solid read.
May 3, 2026
Animal bonds magic and unicorns
This story was unexpected in such a good way. They magic system is so vastly different from other books. I like how relatable Sylvette feels in been socially awkward and making mistakes due to this.
This story was unexpected in such a good way. They magic system is so vastly different from other books. I like how relatable Sylvette feels in been socially awkward and making mistakes due to this.
April 26, 2026
I picked up The Unicorn Bond honestly just because… unicorns. I had no idea what I was walking into, but by the end I was surprisingly happy and genuinely wanted more.
Benno and Hunter were such easy characters to love for me and though they are central to the story, I would have loved to have seen more of them. In saying that, Laka completely stole the show for me. I’m a horse/unicorn girl at heart, so of course the bond and the creature magic had me before I opened the first page.
What really got me was how quickly I got hooked. I thought it’d be a cute little read, and suddenly I’d smashed through the whole thing in two days. The story has this cozy, gentle vibe with a mix of self‑discovery, love, and magic that just wraps around you and makes you feel good.
If you’re like me and love anything with horses or unicorns, or you’re in the mood for a soft, comforting romantasy, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Benno and Hunter were such easy characters to love for me and though they are central to the story, I would have loved to have seen more of them. In saying that, Laka completely stole the show for me. I’m a horse/unicorn girl at heart, so of course the bond and the creature magic had me before I opened the first page.
What really got me was how quickly I got hooked. I thought it’d be a cute little read, and suddenly I’d smashed through the whole thing in two days. The story has this cozy, gentle vibe with a mix of self‑discovery, love, and magic that just wraps around you and makes you feel good.
If you’re like me and love anything with horses or unicorns, or you’re in the mood for a soft, comforting romantasy, this one is definitely worth picking up.
April 24, 2026
I loved this story. The idea of Animalists and people with animal bonds is a beautiful idea. Those of us with pets feel a level of this but to truly have a connection to them and one to help with intrinsic connection and understanding of the relationships we hold. This book is definitely worth the time, and is low spice for those who prefer a romantasy without all the spicy time.
April 24, 2026
I loved this book! So different from my usual fantasy reads. Laka quickly became a favorite character of mine and I appreciated Sylvette's inner battle to do what's right but also try to live her life. Definitely can't wait for book two 😍
April 22, 2026
I was a arc reader for this book and I did really enjoy reading it though I did find the romantic connection between the sylvette and benno a bit random as we don’t see any sign from benno that he has feelings for her. But other than that it was amazingly written and I loved that it gave golden compass vibes and I’m excited to read the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2026
I received this as an ARC from the author in exchange for my honest review. Thank you Coby!
This was a book I couldn't wait to read - fantasy world but with some new animals?! And a UNICORN at that?! Yes please! I loved the setting the author painted of Cambridge. In fact, I felt like the setting itself was given the most detail and attention of anything and that was both a positive and negative. I couldn't picture many settings in the book but Cambridge was a DONE deal. Coby Birch definitely did a good job of making me really want to visit there! I gave the book a 4 because I felt like overall it was a bit cold. It could be because the prose style is not my favorite - it's a third person, present tense style. Meaning : Trisha closes the book and looks over at her cat. She gets up and gets a cup of coffee. Versus "Trisha closed her book and looked over at her cat." Present tense messes up my brain and often makes me feel like I'm reading a list of things, not a story. Again, that's a personal thing but it's how I connect with books.
The story follows our FMC Sylvette, who was adorable but also VERY frustrating to follow. She's journeying to Cambrige for Animal Science classes, all while hiding that she's one of the few gifted Animalists who actually have an animal companion - of which ALL are inivisible from everyone else unless the paired human allows you to see them. A cool spin on stories where everyone is paired with a mythical animal that you can see and interact with. This is a special, almost frowned upon type of ability. The world doesn't understand it because Animalists have issues with technology and therefore seem a bit "challenged". Sylvette is trying to merge her worlds and learn more in Cambridge..... BUT. She's also there on a task from her family. To find the Touchstone.
Now.... this is where my brain hurt. Because you'd THINK this was some big thing. You'd THINK this Touchstone "test" was some big question and answer and revelation. When it finally all came to the conclusion (trying not to give spoilers) I found myself just sitting there going "That's it?!" I was hoping for something to shake the world of Animalists and non alike.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. It was a very nice paced fantasy - somewhat romantasy - and had you wondering what YOU would do if the world was trying to stop you from the one thing you knew you were meant to do and be. If love took you away from someone you already cared about, would you do it? How do you know love is real to begin with? Can we trust even our own instincts? These questions and more are what kept me hanging on to every choice Sylvette made. I look forward to the next books hopefully digging into more of the powers of Animalists, the Rebels and their actions, Benno's lab work, and how it all connects.
This was a book I couldn't wait to read - fantasy world but with some new animals?! And a UNICORN at that?! Yes please! I loved the setting the author painted of Cambridge. In fact, I felt like the setting itself was given the most detail and attention of anything and that was both a positive and negative. I couldn't picture many settings in the book but Cambridge was a DONE deal. Coby Birch definitely did a good job of making me really want to visit there! I gave the book a 4 because I felt like overall it was a bit cold. It could be because the prose style is not my favorite - it's a third person, present tense style. Meaning : Trisha closes the book and looks over at her cat. She gets up and gets a cup of coffee. Versus "Trisha closed her book and looked over at her cat." Present tense messes up my brain and often makes me feel like I'm reading a list of things, not a story. Again, that's a personal thing but it's how I connect with books.
The story follows our FMC Sylvette, who was adorable but also VERY frustrating to follow. She's journeying to Cambrige for Animal Science classes, all while hiding that she's one of the few gifted Animalists who actually have an animal companion - of which ALL are inivisible from everyone else unless the paired human allows you to see them. A cool spin on stories where everyone is paired with a mythical animal that you can see and interact with. This is a special, almost frowned upon type of ability. The world doesn't understand it because Animalists have issues with technology and therefore seem a bit "challenged". Sylvette is trying to merge her worlds and learn more in Cambridge..... BUT. She's also there on a task from her family. To find the Touchstone.
Now.... this is where my brain hurt. Because you'd THINK this was some big thing. You'd THINK this Touchstone "test" was some big question and answer and revelation. When it finally all came to the conclusion (trying not to give spoilers) I found myself just sitting there going "That's it?!" I was hoping for something to shake the world of Animalists and non alike.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. It was a very nice paced fantasy - somewhat romantasy - and had you wondering what YOU would do if the world was trying to stop you from the one thing you knew you were meant to do and be. If love took you away from someone you already cared about, would you do it? How do you know love is real to begin with? Can we trust even our own instincts? These questions and more are what kept me hanging on to every choice Sylvette made. I look forward to the next books hopefully digging into more of the powers of Animalists, the Rebels and their actions, Benno's lab work, and how it all connects.
May 14, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5/5)
The Unicorn Bond was such a unique and intriguing read. I really loved the academic atmosphere, the magical studies, the companions, and the way the world slowly unfolds throughout the story. The balance between magic and technology was especially interesting, and I found myself completely pulled into the mystery and lore.
This is definitely more of a slow-burn, character and world-building focused story rather than an action-heavy romantasy, but I actually enjoyed that because it made the world feel immersive and memorable. While Sylvette frustrated me at times and I wished some relationships had more emotional depth, I still found her growth relatable and appreciated how realistic her flaws felt.
Overall, this was a solid YA romantasy with mystery, light romance, and a beautifully built world that left me excited for book two.
The Unicorn Bond was such a unique and intriguing read. I really loved the academic atmosphere, the magical studies, the companions, and the way the world slowly unfolds throughout the story. The balance between magic and technology was especially interesting, and I found myself completely pulled into the mystery and lore.
This is definitely more of a slow-burn, character and world-building focused story rather than an action-heavy romantasy, but I actually enjoyed that because it made the world feel immersive and memorable. While Sylvette frustrated me at times and I wished some relationships had more emotional depth, I still found her growth relatable and appreciated how realistic her flaws felt.
Overall, this was a solid YA romantasy with mystery, light romance, and a beautifully built world that left me excited for book two.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2026
Fmc Sylvette goes to Cambridge but she's unlike other students. She comes from a rare genetic line bonded to an invisible animal companion. Laka a unicorn is her animal companion. Magic that's in DNA not cast by spells. Magic is fading so its up to her to find the truthstone that may be the only thing to keep her kind from being destroyed. She must choose bettween 2 mmcs. Mmc Robert who has no magic, offers a normal life without it and saftey. Mmc Benno sees her for who she is. Who can she trust? Who will she choose? Will she complete her task and find the truthstone?
Slow burn, magical creatures, love triangle,
university setting, little spice, betrayal, mystery
Waiting for book 2 to come out.
Slow burn, magical creatures, love triangle,
university setting, little spice, betrayal, mystery
Waiting for book 2 to come out.
April 22, 2026
What a great start to a fantastic series by this Author! An amazing world where certain people have magical bonds with animals known as Companions, who are only visible to them.
This is a book of Fantasy, first love, betrayal and so much more. I'm excited to see this series grow and can't wait for the second book!!
This is a book of Fantasy, first love, betrayal and so much more. I'm excited to see this series grow and can't wait for the second book!!
April 27, 2026
I had a really good time reading this new take on magic in a modern world. From the rules, to the character histories, to the animals themselves, this was very well written and interesting! I could NOT put it down!
I appreciate the focus on the genetic research of the problem! Not enough issues get research approved outside of fiction, imo.
I appreciate the focus on the genetic research of the problem! Not enough issues get research approved outside of fiction, imo.
May 5, 2026
Delighted to share this book with everyone at last! It's a story about magic, genes, and difficult choices.
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